6,931 bars around schools, residential areas closed – PS Omollo

 

At least 6,931 bars and clubs near residential estates and schools have been closed countrywide.

Interior PS Raymond Omollo said enforcement actions are being taken against bars located in residential areas and near schools as well as establishments operating outside stipulated hours.

"Consequently, 6,931 premises have been closed and alcoholic stocks confiscated," Omollo said.

The public has been urged to actively participate in safeguarding communities by reporting any establishments within their residential areas to relevant authorities.

The government has extended its effort to curb illicit brew and drug and substance abuse menace in estates.

Early this month, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki ordered the immediate closure of bars and clubs within the residential estates and learning institution.

"Any licenses currently issued to bars and other outlets and premises by county governments that are contrary to the provisions of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, especially as relates to licensing of premises within residential areas and around basic educational institutions are null and void. County Security Teams are to secure shut down and seizure of such premises with immediate effect," he said.

In addition to that, the CS also announced that landlords who rent out spaces for such establishments shall also be held accountable.

"All landlords or premise owners shall be deemed aiders and abetters thereof and be held liable for renting out space for the establishment of bars/ wines and spirits outlets in prohibited areas pursuant to section 20(c) of the Penal Code," Kindiki said.

In 2022, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja canceled licenses for nightclubs operating in residential areas following a public uproar over noise pollution.

As a result, The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse welcomed the crackdown by the Nairobi County Government on bars and nightclubs in residential areas.

In a statement, Nacada CEO Victor Okioma noted that it has been receiving numerous complaints regarding bars and entertainment joints operating in estates and near schools.

In November 2018, High Court Judge Chacha Mwita ruled that it was illegal for bars to operate near schools and residential areas.

He grounded his ruling on Article 42 of the Constitution, which gives everyone the right to a clean and healthy environment free from pollutants such as noise.

BY THE STAR